Detroit Education Resources for Every Age

Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD)

DPSCD is the city's traditional public school district. Its enrollment page says families can choose from more than 100 schools. Along with neighborhood schools, the district runs specialty programs (application and Montessori schools), examination high schools and career and technical centers. Students must be accepted before enrolling in an application or examination school.

To enroll, DPSCD asks for a completed enrollment packet, a parent or guardian photo ID, the student's birth certificate or birth record, an immunization record or waiver, the most recent transcript or report card and two proofs of address. For help, the district lists (313) 240-4377.

Charter schools

The Michigan Department of Education explains that charter schools, also called public school academies, are public schools. They may not charge tuition and must enroll anyone who applies, up to capacity. Each one is overseen by an authorizer such as a public university, community college or school district, and must use certified teachers.

Private and parochial schools

Detroit and its suburbs also have private and faith-based schools. These charge tuition and set their own admission rules, so contact each school directly.

Suburban districts

Outside Detroit, each city or township is served by its own local district. Our school guide and city guides can help you compare areas before you move.

A Detroit Public Library card is free and comes with perks the library lists on its site, including e-books through Hoopla and Libby, full access to LinkedIn Learning for job skills, and ABC Mouse for young children. Branches offer public computers and technology help, and the Main Library on Woodward hosts free events.

Call the library at (313) 481-1300 or visit detroitpubliclibrary.org for branch hours. Suburban residents can get a card from their own city or township library.